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The Court of Venus
The Court of Venus is an ensnaring romantic fantasy in which a moon-blessed magician is summoned back to the deadly magical court she thought she had escaped; where power is determined by the stars—and the closer you are to the king, the more likely you are to die. Perfect for fans of The Knight and The Moth, The Familiar, and A Darker Shade of Magic.
In Alvion, magicians have always ruled beside kings. Blessed at birth by one of the seven planets, their abilities are miraculous and extremely rare. Magicians born under Jupiter influence luck. Saturnborn can speak to the dead. Venusborn read the desires of the living.
At the moment of Bianca Mortlake’s birth, the stars and planets aligned just so, making her the first Moonborn magician in over a thousand years. A sorcery so rare that even the history books cannot say what she is capable of.
After a childhood training under the realm’s most powerful magician—and alongside a most insufferable Venusborn named Roland—Bianca lives a quiet life far from court. Until a chilling missive arrives in the night, summoning her back.
A mad and deadly court awaits. Two queens have met the executioner’s blade, and one wrong move could see any of them next beneath its steel. As power is pulled between ruthless royals and courtiers like the tides by the moon, Bianca must rely on the last person she would ever want to—the infuriatingly alluring Roland.
Because something is terribly wrong in Alvion. And only this moon-blessed magician and her oldest rival can save the court—and each other—from the dark fate they see written in the stars.
The Court of Venus
*rivals to lovers
*courtly intrigue
*magic tournament
*slow burn
*murder mystery
*she falls first, he falls harder
In Alvion, magicians have always ruled beside kings. Blessed at birth by one of the seven planets, their abilities are miraculous and extremely rare. Magicians born under Jupiter influence luck. Saturnborn can speak to the dead. Venusborn read the desires of the living.
At the moment of Bianca Mortlake’s birth, the stars and planets aligned just so, making her the first Moonborn magician in over a thousand years. A sorcery so rare that even the history books cannot say what she is capable of.
After a childhood training under the realm’s most powerful magician—and alongside a most insufferable Venusborn named Roland—Bianca lives a quiet life far from court. Until a chilling missive arrives in the night, summoning her back.
A mad and deadly court awaits. Two queens have met the executioner’s blade, and one wrong move could see any of them next beneath its steel. As power is pulled between ruthless royals and courtiers like the tides by the moon, Bianca must rely on the last person she would ever want to—the infuriatingly alluring Roland.
Because something is terribly wrong in Alvion. And only this moon-blessed magician and her oldest rival can save the court—and each other—from the dark fate they see written in the stars.
The Court of Venus
*rivals to lovers
*courtly intrigue
*magic tournament
*slow burn
*murder mystery
*she falls first, he falls harder
348 pages, Hardcover
First published September 29, 2026
About the author
Bel Banta
1 book176 followersBel Banta is a bookseller and writer. She graduated from the University of Virginia and lives with her partner and two cats in Brooklyn. Some of her very favorite things include video games, coffee, and walking around the city listening to movie scores.
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This didn’t work for me. The writing style was good, the characters were interesting, and the romance was slow burn, but the story didn’t pull me in. The plot was focused on court intrigue and scheming, which sounded fantastic, but I felt bored most of the time.
The FMC can shape shift into different animals and humans, so she spends her time spying on people, but it’s just conversation after conversation. Even knowing what she can do, those doing the scheming take zero precautions and are happy to share secrets with anyone who has a familiar face. I mean, someone caught her once and they just told her to leave. Where was the tension? The consequences? I saw none of it.
I kept reading because of the characters and writing, but the stakes were never high enough for me to appreciate it. At one point someone died during a dance and everyone proceeded as if nothing happened. When things finally started picking up (70% in, I think?), I didn’t care anymore.
I didn’t warm up to Bianca and Roland’s romance either, and the ending was underwhelming and felt too neat for my taste.
The narrator did a good job, but listening to the audio made an already boring story drag even more, so I actually preferred reading it.
I felt very neutral about this book overall. Looking back, I wish I dnf’d this.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc and alc!
The FMC can shape shift into different animals and humans, so she spends her time spying on people, but it’s just conversation after conversation. Even knowing what she can do, those doing the scheming take zero precautions and are happy to share secrets with anyone who has a familiar face. I mean, someone caught her once and they just told her to leave. Where was the tension? The consequences? I saw none of it.
I kept reading because of the characters and writing, but the stakes were never high enough for me to appreciate it. At one point someone died during a dance and everyone proceeded as if nothing happened. When things finally started picking up (70% in, I think?), I didn’t care anymore.
I didn’t warm up to Bianca and Roland’s romance either, and the ending was underwhelming and felt too neat for my taste.
The narrator did a good job, but listening to the audio made an already boring story drag even more, so I actually preferred reading it.
I felt very neutral about this book overall. Looking back, I wish I dnf’d this.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc and alc!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4! This book is great. If you want a well rounded fantasy with equal elements of intrigue, court politics, astrology based magic system, world building and romance.. then The Court of Venus is a book for you! It's thick in court games and a mystery surrounding a royal servant of the crown. There is also slow-burn rivals to lovers romance that holds genuine history underneath it. There are a lot of power dynamics explored within the magic system and a great sequel setup. I personally loved the Tudor-inspired aesthetic in this book, its very immersive and sounded dangerous.
The story takes a WHILE to unfold. This is by no means a spicy romantasy. There is a lot of emotional angst/tension which comes at a later part of the book, but I really enjoyed that part of the story (like 65% and onwards). I don't enjoy books that hold the weight with sexual tension and the characters jump into bed by 25%; thats a no go for me. So I can assure you, this is not it.
What's it about
This is a Tudor-like celestial fantasy that is mainly centered on magic that revolves around seven celestial bodies with magical abilities that are rooted and depend on planetary connection: Saturn, Jupiter, Venus and Moon. Our protagonist-Bianca, is a powerful magician who lived away from court for many years. She's asked to come back and there she meets again/reconnects with Roland, a childhood friend turned rival. Within that royal court, dangerous things are brewing. Two queens have recently died and the king is in need of an heir that he can't seem to produce. Bianca mainly returns to investigate the mysterious death of Prince Hal, which is not what it appears to be. As she investigates, a much larger conspiracy starts to evolve.
I've already listened to about 19% of this audiobook and this is GOOD.
This is featured on Allurial! Oh my goodness the book is gorgeous! Grab your first copy for 9.99$ here:
https://www.allurial.com/refer/g7sai1...
Very easy to sign up, skip, pause or cancel at no additional cost to you!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio for an early ALC!
Narrator: Samantha Hydeson
Duration: 14 hours 47 minutes
Speed: 1.75x
Publication date: September 29, 2026
The story takes a WHILE to unfold. This is by no means a spicy romantasy. There is a lot of emotional angst/tension which comes at a later part of the book, but I really enjoyed that part of the story (like 65% and onwards). I don't enjoy books that hold the weight with sexual tension and the characters jump into bed by 25%; thats a no go for me. So I can assure you, this is not it.
What's it about
This is a Tudor-like celestial fantasy that is mainly centered on magic that revolves around seven celestial bodies with magical abilities that are rooted and depend on planetary connection: Saturn, Jupiter, Venus and Moon. Our protagonist-Bianca, is a powerful magician who lived away from court for many years. She's asked to come back and there she meets again/reconnects with Roland, a childhood friend turned rival. Within that royal court, dangerous things are brewing. Two queens have recently died and the king is in need of an heir that he can't seem to produce. Bianca mainly returns to investigate the mysterious death of Prince Hal, which is not what it appears to be. As she investigates, a much larger conspiracy starts to evolve.
I've already listened to about 19% of this audiobook and this is GOOD.
This is featured on Allurial! Oh my goodness the book is gorgeous! Grab your first copy for 9.99$ here:
https://www.allurial.com/refer/g7sai1...
Very easy to sign up, skip, pause or cancel at no additional cost to you!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio for an early ALC!
Narrator: Samantha Hydeson
Duration: 14 hours 47 minutes
Speed: 1.75x
Publication date: September 29, 2026
September 22, 2026
In Alvion’s royal court, heads freely roll whenever the king grows testy, and even the most powerful magicians are not beyond his reach.
Bianca Mortlake is the first Moonborn magician in more than a thousand years. While most magicians possess established gifts associated with one of seven celestial bodies, Bianca’s rare abilities remain largely unknown. After spending her childhood training alongside Roland, an infuriating Venusborn magician, she escaped that world and built a quieter life in service to a highborn family. Then a summons brings her back to the deadly court she thought she had left behind.
Surrounded by treachery, political rivalry, and gruesome executions, Bianca must navigate a place where magicians may hold extraordinary power but are still forced to serve the king. Roland, her childhood rival and supposed adversary, also brings back painful memories of the life she endured before leaving. Yet her pull toward him proves as complicated as the mysteries unfolding within the court.
The celestial magic system is one of the book’s strongest elements. Each type of magician has abilities connected to a particular planet, creating compelling questions about how these gifts manifest and what Bianca may be capable of as a Moonborn. The fantasy is filled with betrayal, forced servitude, sexism, murder, magical revelations, and unsavory political maneuvering as Bianca and Roland attempt to survive this toxic world.
Romance readers should know that the relationship develops slowly and comes after the extensive world-building and court intrigue. However, when the romance becomes a greater part of the story, it carries significant emotional weight. Bianca remains deeply focused on everything she has already lost, which made watching her consider the possibility of a new relationship unexpectedly moving for me.
Samantha Hydeson is a strong choice for this serious, atmospheric fantasy told from Bianca’s point of view. Her performance suits the danger and gravity of the story, and she gives the characters distinct voices. I occasionally became confused about who was speaking or when a scene was taking place because the plot involves shifting identities and visions of memories. Although Hydeson appropriately adjusted her performance during these transitions, the complexity of Bianca’s experiences sometimes made the audiobook difficult for me to follow.
The Court of Venus will appeal most to readers who enjoy intricate celestial magic, deadly royal politics, murder mysteries, and slow-burn romance that develops amid much larger stakes.
Content considerations include murder, executions, forced servitude, sexism, violence, grief, and toxic power dynamics.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing an advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Bianca Mortlake is the first Moonborn magician in more than a thousand years. While most magicians possess established gifts associated with one of seven celestial bodies, Bianca’s rare abilities remain largely unknown. After spending her childhood training alongside Roland, an infuriating Venusborn magician, she escaped that world and built a quieter life in service to a highborn family. Then a summons brings her back to the deadly court she thought she had left behind.
Surrounded by treachery, political rivalry, and gruesome executions, Bianca must navigate a place where magicians may hold extraordinary power but are still forced to serve the king. Roland, her childhood rival and supposed adversary, also brings back painful memories of the life she endured before leaving. Yet her pull toward him proves as complicated as the mysteries unfolding within the court.
The celestial magic system is one of the book’s strongest elements. Each type of magician has abilities connected to a particular planet, creating compelling questions about how these gifts manifest and what Bianca may be capable of as a Moonborn. The fantasy is filled with betrayal, forced servitude, sexism, murder, magical revelations, and unsavory political maneuvering as Bianca and Roland attempt to survive this toxic world.
Romance readers should know that the relationship develops slowly and comes after the extensive world-building and court intrigue. However, when the romance becomes a greater part of the story, it carries significant emotional weight. Bianca remains deeply focused on everything she has already lost, which made watching her consider the possibility of a new relationship unexpectedly moving for me.
Samantha Hydeson is a strong choice for this serious, atmospheric fantasy told from Bianca’s point of view. Her performance suits the danger and gravity of the story, and she gives the characters distinct voices. I occasionally became confused about who was speaking or when a scene was taking place because the plot involves shifting identities and visions of memories. Although Hydeson appropriately adjusted her performance during these transitions, the complexity of Bianca’s experiences sometimes made the audiobook difficult for me to follow.
The Court of Venus will appeal most to readers who enjoy intricate celestial magic, deadly royal politics, murder mysteries, and slow-burn romance that develops amid much larger stakes.
Content considerations include murder, executions, forced servitude, sexism, violence, grief, and toxic power dynamics.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing an advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 6, 2026
The flirtatious kings advisor, beloved by all (except one person who they want desperately and who greets them with a knife to the throat) I LOVE THIS SONG. Romantic fantasy with yearning is back people!!!
A dazzling tale of courtly intrigue, celestial magic, and star written love, Bel Banta’s, The Court of Venus bridges the historical with the fantastical in an expansive narrative all about power and the lengths we will go to rewrite our fates. When an exiled moon-blessed magician returns to the court of Alvion, a growing power struggle necessitates she join forces with her long-ago rival to uncover a conspiracy and solve the murder of their friend from childhood. Against the turbulent king's court, neither will emerge unscathed, nor will they fully outlast the conflicting desires between them and the kingdom entire. In a Tudor-esque plot of secrets and deadly political machinations, Banta builds a landscape fraught with uncertainty—where one misstep spells death by the executioner's sword. With a murder to solve and the past to untangle, The Court of Venus has a lot cut out for it, but it achieves it all with breathtaking skill and an overwhelming singularity. This novel is a clash of personalities, from members of royalty, to courtiers, to the flirtatious king's advisor beloved by all (except the one person who they want desperately and who greets them with a knife to the throat). Not without its kernel of romance, The Court of Venus parries the plot with a biting, sensual slow burn. For there is no one that gets under one's skin quite like a bitter rival, nor someone who can see you down to the marrow and decide they want you anyway. This debut harnesses a vast and hungering intensity. Banta writes with a ferocity that will make you feel held at knife point (and you will like it). The Court of Venus is fantasy the way it should be: suffused in romantic yearning, an intense political underpinning, and a plot that cuts to the bone. Coupled with an agonizing twist that had me ready to scream at the stars, Bel Banta is a talent fated to have me in her walls until book two.
“Before I saw her again, I would have said I had been in love a handful of times. Now I know she has been the only one.” SCREAM
thank you to edelweiss and the publisher for providing the advance review copy.
Bookstagram | Blog
A dazzling tale of courtly intrigue, celestial magic, and star written love, Bel Banta’s, The Court of Venus bridges the historical with the fantastical in an expansive narrative all about power and the lengths we will go to rewrite our fates. When an exiled moon-blessed magician returns to the court of Alvion, a growing power struggle necessitates she join forces with her long-ago rival to uncover a conspiracy and solve the murder of their friend from childhood. Against the turbulent king's court, neither will emerge unscathed, nor will they fully outlast the conflicting desires between them and the kingdom entire. In a Tudor-esque plot of secrets and deadly political machinations, Banta builds a landscape fraught with uncertainty—where one misstep spells death by the executioner's sword. With a murder to solve and the past to untangle, The Court of Venus has a lot cut out for it, but it achieves it all with breathtaking skill and an overwhelming singularity. This novel is a clash of personalities, from members of royalty, to courtiers, to the flirtatious king's advisor beloved by all (except the one person who they want desperately and who greets them with a knife to the throat). Not without its kernel of romance, The Court of Venus parries the plot with a biting, sensual slow burn. For there is no one that gets under one's skin quite like a bitter rival, nor someone who can see you down to the marrow and decide they want you anyway. This debut harnesses a vast and hungering intensity. Banta writes with a ferocity that will make you feel held at knife point (and you will like it). The Court of Venus is fantasy the way it should be: suffused in romantic yearning, an intense political underpinning, and a plot that cuts to the bone. Coupled with an agonizing twist that had me ready to scream at the stars, Bel Banta is a talent fated to have me in her walls until book two.
“Before I saw her again, I would have said I had been in love a handful of times. Now I know she has been the only one.” SCREAM
thank you to edelweiss and the publisher for providing the advance review copy.
Bookstagram | Blog
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Received early via the publisher.
____
Pink hair, one earring and stacks of rings? hELLO?!
Ahem , now that’s out of the way.
Oh how this book won me over rapidly. I was nervous about the Tudor-leaning aesthetic, as historical fantasy can be hit-or-miss for me, but this is largely in aesthetics and otherwise felt like many fantasy settings we know and love. Plus I just adore sinking my teeth into the manipulations of court politics, and with this type of magic running rampant? It was DELECTABLE. What a pairing.
The magic in this is so cleverly used, the reading of desires and emotions fine tuned in a way that had me gleefully reading, keen to find out more right alongside Bianca and Roland. And what makes a romance messier than those emotions being easily read? There’s such an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and the bittersweet from the get go, the childhood friends to rivals to …more (?) is near torturous in all the way those emotions are pulled. They live in each other’s mind, and mine too.
There’s yearning, astrology, and a high stakes rivalry that had me chomping at the bit. It’s a refreshing take on romantasy, and one I hope doesn’t fly under the radar.
____
Pink hair, one earring and stacks of rings? hELLO?!
Ahem , now that’s out of the way.
Oh how this book won me over rapidly. I was nervous about the Tudor-leaning aesthetic, as historical fantasy can be hit-or-miss for me, but this is largely in aesthetics and otherwise felt like many fantasy settings we know and love. Plus I just adore sinking my teeth into the manipulations of court politics, and with this type of magic running rampant? It was DELECTABLE. What a pairing.
The magic in this is so cleverly used, the reading of desires and emotions fine tuned in a way that had me gleefully reading, keen to find out more right alongside Bianca and Roland. And what makes a romance messier than those emotions being easily read? There’s such an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and the bittersweet from the get go, the childhood friends to rivals to …more (?) is near torturous in all the way those emotions are pulled. They live in each other’s mind, and mine too.
There’s yearning, astrology, and a high stakes rivalry that had me chomping at the bit. It’s a refreshing take on romantasy, and one I hope doesn’t fly under the radar.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
firstly, thank you to the publisher for a physical arc and an alc!
i have seen the court of venus everywhere on socials, and so i was excited to dive into my alc!
the court of venus is a new romantasy series following a moon-blessed magician returning to the deadly magical court she believed to have escaped... this definitely had arthurian vibes to me, which is always a plus imo!!
as for the audio, the narrator did a great job!
it was also really nice to meet bel recently and chat with her!
i have seen the court of venus everywhere on socials, and so i was excited to dive into my alc!
the court of venus is a new romantasy series following a moon-blessed magician returning to the deadly magical court she believed to have escaped... this definitely had arthurian vibes to me, which is always a plus imo!!
as for the audio, the narrator did a great job!
it was also really nice to meet bel recently and chat with her!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Honestly, what a blast? Something between 4.25-4.5 good time ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ stars (so rounding up). & thank you to both Tor for the ARC & Macmillan Audio for the ALC in exchange for am honest review.
PLOT
In the time Bianca — who was once trained by the kingdom’s best magician — has been away from court, her rival/fellow trainee Roland has risen to power & her other friend, the heir Hal, was mysteriously murdered. She is summoned back to court & finds it’s more of a mess than she thought; queens killed by the king & succession in shambles. She finds the only person she can trust to figure out what’s going on… is the last person she wants to.
- rivals to lovers, childhood friends/rivals
- super unique astrology-based magic system
- equally cunning FMC & MMC
- solo-narrated audiobook
- lower/med spice
- book 1 in a duology
PROS
- This has one of my favorite tropes in it which is “they knew each other as kids & meet again as adults & are adversaries” & it was done QUITE well.
- Oh the tension/longing in this is so good. There’s an additional emotional layer to it that adds such a good boundary & it was so fun to read.
- SUCH good pacing! Felt like we were always doing something fun & interesting & we had no down time in the best way.
- MMC is hot & flirty I like him.
- FMC is clever & deliberate & interesting & I quiiiiite like her as well.
- Fascinating magic system! Super unique. The tie to astrology was so much fun. I also think, because it is a tad complex with how many variations of stuff there is, the author did a good job of bringing that info forward in a way that didn’t feel info dumpy or unnatural.
- Delicious court politics.
- I liked how the flashbacks were woven in. Sometimes those can feel like they carry too much weight for the plot & that the author didn’t know how to world-build without it but these were done in a way that built emotional weight, & I certainly enjoyed!
- Really fun reveals throughout.
- The ribbon scene was delicious.
- AWESOME audiobook btw. She crushed it.
MIDS
- One could argue this is a short book & maybe too much happened to dive super deep into characters & motivations? Idk I liked the pacing, it was super fun & felt like I was just sprinting through this world in a fun way. But then I’d also be like “oh wow okay here we are I guess” - I might just want my cake & to eat it too though, so not calling this a con.
CONS
- Sometimes things maybe felt convenient? Around the magic & general scheming especially. Like I know our people are brilliant & it’s not that they didn’t run into issues, but idk. Something just felt the basest bit too easy when it came to all the plans, etc. Maybe it’s also partly because the magic seems like it can shift/evolve based on astral alignment? Idk, just something!
SUPER fun, will absolutely read book 2!
PLOT
In the time Bianca — who was once trained by the kingdom’s best magician — has been away from court, her rival/fellow trainee Roland has risen to power & her other friend, the heir Hal, was mysteriously murdered. She is summoned back to court & finds it’s more of a mess than she thought; queens killed by the king & succession in shambles. She finds the only person she can trust to figure out what’s going on… is the last person she wants to.
- rivals to lovers, childhood friends/rivals
- super unique astrology-based magic system
- equally cunning FMC & MMC
- solo-narrated audiobook
- lower/med spice
- book 1 in a duology
PROS
- This has one of my favorite tropes in it which is “they knew each other as kids & meet again as adults & are adversaries” & it was done QUITE well.
- Oh the tension/longing in this is so good. There’s an additional emotional layer to it that adds such a good boundary & it was so fun to read.
- SUCH good pacing! Felt like we were always doing something fun & interesting & we had no down time in the best way.
- MMC is hot & flirty I like him.
- FMC is clever & deliberate & interesting & I quiiiiite like her as well.
- Fascinating magic system! Super unique. The tie to astrology was so much fun. I also think, because it is a tad complex with how many variations of stuff there is, the author did a good job of bringing that info forward in a way that didn’t feel info dumpy or unnatural.
- Delicious court politics.
- I liked how the flashbacks were woven in. Sometimes those can feel like they carry too much weight for the plot & that the author didn’t know how to world-build without it but these were done in a way that built emotional weight, & I certainly enjoyed!
- Really fun reveals throughout.
- The ribbon scene was delicious.
- AWESOME audiobook btw. She crushed it.
MIDS
- One could argue this is a short book & maybe too much happened to dive super deep into characters & motivations? Idk I liked the pacing, it was super fun & felt like I was just sprinting through this world in a fun way. But then I’d also be like “oh wow okay here we are I guess” - I might just want my cake & to eat it too though, so not calling this a con.
CONS
- Sometimes things maybe felt convenient? Around the magic & general scheming especially. Like I know our people are brilliant & it’s not that they didn’t run into issues, but idk. Something just felt the basest bit too easy when it came to all the plans, etc. Maybe it’s also partly because the magic seems like it can shift/evolve based on astral alignment? Idk, just something!
SUPER fun, will absolutely read book 2!
Want to Read
September 16, 2026no cuz wdym the guy has pink hair?!? is this evangeline's long lost brother...
August 31, 2026
The Court of Venus is a deliciously entertaining new romantic fantasy that I really enjoyed! With a decadently rotten court, scheming in the shadows, a unique magic system, and great romantic tension, I would highly recommend this to fans of The Foxglove King by Hannah Whitten and One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig.
I love a fantasy story that centers court politics, and I thought they were really well done in The Court of Venus. Bel Banta crafts a fascinating, high-tension setting inspired by Tudor England. The court of Alvion is dark, corrupt, and falling apart—rotting from greed and paranoia. We follow two characters who, by their very nature and their magic, are thrust into the center of politics in this kingdom whether they want to be or not. It was incredibly interesting to see what Roland and Bianca decide to do in that unique position, whether they will continue to be tools for the powerful people around them or if they will take advantage of the fragile politics of this kingdom to change their fate.
The romantic tension was, of course, the star of the show. I love Bianca and Roland individually, and I love the tension that their shared history brought to their relationship from their first on-page interaction. Coming back together after they have changed and grown as individuals makes for fabulous interactions brimming with tension. I love their relationship. I love that Roland is so down bad for Bianca and just a little bit pathetic in the best ways. I am very excited to see the evolution of their character arcs in the sequel as they grow into the power they have carved out for themselves and navigate the growing political tensions.
The Court of Venus was a fantastic, high-tension fantasy romance that I could not put down. I cannot wait to read book two!
Thank you so much to Tor for the ARC
Links to my TikTok | Instagram | YouTube
I love a fantasy story that centers court politics, and I thought they were really well done in The Court of Venus. Bel Banta crafts a fascinating, high-tension setting inspired by Tudor England. The court of Alvion is dark, corrupt, and falling apart—rotting from greed and paranoia. We follow two characters who, by their very nature and their magic, are thrust into the center of politics in this kingdom whether they want to be or not. It was incredibly interesting to see what Roland and Bianca decide to do in that unique position, whether they will continue to be tools for the powerful people around them or if they will take advantage of the fragile politics of this kingdom to change their fate.
The romantic tension was, of course, the star of the show. I love Bianca and Roland individually, and I love the tension that their shared history brought to their relationship from their first on-page interaction. Coming back together after they have changed and grown as individuals makes for fabulous interactions brimming with tension. I love their relationship. I love that Roland is so down bad for Bianca and just a little bit pathetic in the best ways. I am very excited to see the evolution of their character arcs in the sequel as they grow into the power they have carved out for themselves and navigate the growing political tensions.
The Court of Venus was a fantastic, high-tension fantasy romance that I could not put down. I cannot wait to read book two!
Thank you so much to Tor for the ARC
Links to my TikTok | Instagram | YouTube
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Set in a Tudor-inspired world where astrologers and magicians rule alongside kings, this was a promising debut with teething problems.
Bianca is born during a rare planetary alignment, making her the first Moonborn magician in over a thousand years. She was trained by the realm's most powerful magician, alongside her insufferable rival, a Venusborn named Roland. Bianca was Roland’s unwanted shadow, trailing after him and the best of the trio: the noble Prince.
Bianca is embroiled in political intrigue, conspiracies, and desperate to uncover a past murder. Roland, her childhood rival, is the Lord Chancellor, both puppet and master of the king depending on the court’s favour. Oh, and he has pink hair.
“And what’s your price?”
He pondered this for a moment, then held up his ring. “Influence. Yours?”
“A home, I suppose.” I shrugged.
“Safety.” “Oh, Mouse, what a tragic answer. We should have named you Crab instead, for how much you love your shell.”
There was a lot of promise here. Bianca was a compelling character: clever, observant, and strong. Roland is a very complicated magician: the powers of Venus, he is basically a force of attraction to everyone.
The magic system was intriguing: magicians are rare and blessed at birth by one of the seven planets, granting them rare abilities in alignment with their birth and planets.
However, the book fell into a few pitfalls.
First of all, there were certain plot conveniences that were frustrating and went against character development. Without spoilers, there’s this big event that Bianca is worrying about throughout the book. Then, she completely FORGETS about it in order to further the plot? Suspicious.
Likewise, the magic system sounds unique and interesting, yet was never fully explained or explored and there are sudden revelations that work to, you guessed it, fix a plot point. This meant that emotional stakes and immersion wasn’t fully realised.
I wish there were diagrams or excerpts from a textbook etc as that would have been pretty cool and helpful.
For what were names but someone else’s idea of what we were, or could be? Bianca, for my shock of white hair. Mouse, for my scurrying.
I haven’t mentioned the art work yet which is stunning. I bet a lot of people will be convinced by the art inserted in certain chapters.
Overall, a lot of potential, but a few teething problems that might be forgiven for a debut writer or less rigorous editing.
3.75 stars.🌟
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Bianca is born during a rare planetary alignment, making her the first Moonborn magician in over a thousand years. She was trained by the realm's most powerful magician, alongside her insufferable rival, a Venusborn named Roland. Bianca was Roland’s unwanted shadow, trailing after him and the best of the trio: the noble Prince.
Bianca is embroiled in political intrigue, conspiracies, and desperate to uncover a past murder. Roland, her childhood rival, is the Lord Chancellor, both puppet and master of the king depending on the court’s favour. Oh, and he has pink hair.
“And what’s your price?”
He pondered this for a moment, then held up his ring. “Influence. Yours?”
“A home, I suppose.” I shrugged.
“Safety.” “Oh, Mouse, what a tragic answer. We should have named you Crab instead, for how much you love your shell.”
There was a lot of promise here. Bianca was a compelling character: clever, observant, and strong. Roland is a very complicated magician: the powers of Venus, he is basically a force of attraction to everyone.
The magic system was intriguing: magicians are rare and blessed at birth by one of the seven planets, granting them rare abilities in alignment with their birth and planets.
However, the book fell into a few pitfalls.
First of all, there were certain plot conveniences that were frustrating and went against character development. Without spoilers, there’s this big event that Bianca is worrying about throughout the book. Then, she completely FORGETS about it in order to further the plot? Suspicious.
Likewise, the magic system sounds unique and interesting, yet was never fully explained or explored and there are sudden revelations that work to, you guessed it, fix a plot point. This meant that emotional stakes and immersion wasn’t fully realised.
I wish there were diagrams or excerpts from a textbook etc as that would have been pretty cool and helpful.
For what were names but someone else’s idea of what we were, or could be? Bianca, for my shock of white hair. Mouse, for my scurrying.
I haven’t mentioned the art work yet which is stunning. I bet a lot of people will be convinced by the art inserted in certain chapters.
Overall, a lot of potential, but a few teething problems that might be forgiven for a debut writer or less rigorous editing.
3.75 stars.🌟
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September 26, 2026
3.75⭐️ The highlight of this book for me was the love story between Bianca and a past lover…ugh so heart wrenching. I did enjoy the setting and it made me want to run around a castle in a dress and frolic in the grass. The plot was a little lost on me though and at times a little boring.
“Long ago, I loved a boy who is now a ghost. You know him well. You loved him, too. Just now, I felt his hands beneath your hands and almost screamed.”
“Long ago, I loved a boy who is now a ghost. You know him well. You loved him, too. Just now, I felt his hands beneath your hands and almost screamed.”
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
”Court is a web.. Spiders who weave and flies who are caught. Which are you?”
i absolutely loved the writing, it was beautiful and atmospheric. i will also never say no to celestial magic, the astrology parts of it were just a plus. the plot focuses heavily on court politics and all it’s scheming.
i liked both the main characters— Bianca and Roland, the romance was a tension filled slow burn, although they both share a past together. i found Roland to be so intriguing bc he was harder to read, a lot more calculating too.. especially in the beginning of the book.
i was honestly loving this for the majority of it, but the ending wasn’t as impressive as the rest of the book for me? i honestly couldn’t tell you what the plot of the second book will be, it felt like this could’ve easily been a standalone. i guess I’ll just have to find out though.
➻ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Macmillan Audio for the alc, all opinions are my own.
i absolutely loved the writing, it was beautiful and atmospheric. i will also never say no to celestial magic, the astrology parts of it were just a plus. the plot focuses heavily on court politics and all it’s scheming.
i liked both the main characters— Bianca and Roland, the romance was a tension filled slow burn, although they both share a past together. i found Roland to be so intriguing bc he was harder to read, a lot more calculating too.. especially in the beginning of the book.
i was honestly loving this for the majority of it, but the ending wasn’t as impressive as the rest of the book for me? i honestly couldn’t tell you what the plot of the second book will be, it felt like this could’ve easily been a standalone. i guess I’ll just have to find out though.
➻ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Macmillan Audio for the alc, all opinions are my own.
December 9, 2025
Brimming with yearning and set against a glittering world of celestial inspired magic, high stakes, and Tudor worthy intrigue, The Court of Venus shines. Banta has expertly crafted the story I didn’t know I longed for and the world my young zodiac and Tudor obsessed heart craved.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you Macmillan Audio for the gifted audiobook, and Tor for the gifted ARC!
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 ✦
I went into this expecting another historical romance reskinned as Romantasy, but I could not have been more wrong. This is the kind of sincere depth that I have been begging for within the fantasy romance spectrum. Cutthroat politics, betrayal, scheming, action, and a slow burn, high tension romance that had me blushing in public. This was immaculate.
The world building was immense yet approachable, never choosing style over substance. The sensory rich, immersive writing style deftly captured the tumultuous, blood-thirsty atmosphere of a Tudor court, while seamlessly shifting tone based on the narrative. I loved the celestial magic system, and felt that its logistics and importance were explored equally, adding to the tension within the central mystery and adding depth to almost every plot point. Each reveal made me rethink earlier scenes in a way that felt rewarding rather than a rug pull.
The characters were complex and layered, complete with endearing flaws and unique strengths. Bianca is a pragmatic, clever and resilient protagonist, while Roland is alluring, passionate and a little bit aloof. The friction between them was amplified by their solid foundation of childhood intellectual rivalry, mutual suspicion and shared grief. I felt completely invested in their connection and I could not get enough of their soft, intense dynamic. This is the kind of torturous slow burn romance that gently simmers, building mutual respect and understanding as well as genuine tension. Their connection felt truly earned, believable and profound.
Overall, I cannot recommend this book enough, and it might take my top spot for the year so far. It completely exceeded my expectations and will be the perfect read if you’re looking for a well plotted, balanced fantasy romance.
*****Do note that this does start out a little slow. Make sure you have the time and mental space for that, and keep going - every piece of the puzzle is worth it.
✦ 𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼 𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀 ✦
This is a single narration by Samantha Hydeson. I felt that her natural accent really elevated this recording and it felt authentic to the setting. I loved how naturally her tone shifted based on the scene and I felt that she did a great job utilizing different voices for the various cast members. Although this audiobook was well done, I wouldn’t say that it added to my experience in any meaningful way. I think going with your preferred format is best with this one!
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙚:
Rivals to Lovers dynamic
Slow Burn Romance
Reluctant Allies
Murder Mystery
Courtly Intrigue and Politics
Magic Tournament
Celestial Magic System
Fate vs Free Will
✄----------
Genre/s: Fantasy, Romance, Historical
Book 1 of 2
Debut Author
5 Stars
✄----------
Follow me on Instagram for more bookish content
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 ✦
I went into this expecting another historical romance reskinned as Romantasy, but I could not have been more wrong. This is the kind of sincere depth that I have been begging for within the fantasy romance spectrum. Cutthroat politics, betrayal, scheming, action, and a slow burn, high tension romance that had me blushing in public. This was immaculate.
The world building was immense yet approachable, never choosing style over substance. The sensory rich, immersive writing style deftly captured the tumultuous, blood-thirsty atmosphere of a Tudor court, while seamlessly shifting tone based on the narrative. I loved the celestial magic system, and felt that its logistics and importance were explored equally, adding to the tension within the central mystery and adding depth to almost every plot point. Each reveal made me rethink earlier scenes in a way that felt rewarding rather than a rug pull.
The characters were complex and layered, complete with endearing flaws and unique strengths. Bianca is a pragmatic, clever and resilient protagonist, while Roland is alluring, passionate and a little bit aloof. The friction between them was amplified by their solid foundation of childhood intellectual rivalry, mutual suspicion and shared grief. I felt completely invested in their connection and I could not get enough of their soft, intense dynamic. This is the kind of torturous slow burn romance that gently simmers, building mutual respect and understanding as well as genuine tension. Their connection felt truly earned, believable and profound.
Overall, I cannot recommend this book enough, and it might take my top spot for the year so far. It completely exceeded my expectations and will be the perfect read if you’re looking for a well plotted, balanced fantasy romance.
*****Do note that this does start out a little slow. Make sure you have the time and mental space for that, and keep going - every piece of the puzzle is worth it.
✦ 𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼 𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀 ✦
This is a single narration by Samantha Hydeson. I felt that her natural accent really elevated this recording and it felt authentic to the setting. I loved how naturally her tone shifted based on the scene and I felt that she did a great job utilizing different voices for the various cast members. Although this audiobook was well done, I wouldn’t say that it added to my experience in any meaningful way. I think going with your preferred format is best with this one!
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙚:
Rivals to Lovers dynamic
Slow Burn Romance
Reluctant Allies
Murder Mystery
Courtly Intrigue and Politics
Magic Tournament
Celestial Magic System
Fate vs Free Will
✄----------
Genre/s: Fantasy, Romance, Historical
Book 1 of 2
Debut Author
5 Stars
✄----------
Follow me on Instagram for more bookish content
October 1, 2026
Don't you love it when you take a chance on a new author and it turns out to be a five star read? This was a huge win for me!
The Court of Venus takes place in a Tudor-inspired alternate fantasy universe where magic is bestowed and affected by the planets. We're talking the "classic Tudor planets" here, folks (I'm absolutely drooling over the marriage of historical research and fantastical elements): the Sun, the Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. Bianca, Moonborn magician, returns to the court where she was raised. She was summoned to participate in a tournament of magicians organized to celebrate the king's new wife's coronation. But Bianca has an ulterior motive: she wants to investigate the suspicious death of her childhood friend, who was the heir to the throne until he died much too young.
Her other childhood best friend-slash-magical rival, Roland, has profited from the current state of affairs, and is now the Lord Chancellor. He's a Venusborn magician who uses his powers to prop up the ailing king in the hopes of obtaining a new heir to the kingdom. Bianca doesn't know if she can trust him anymore. It doesn't help that Roland is both super hot and can sense others' greatest desires, including Bianca's unwanted attraction to himself. (Ummmm yes.)
I loved the magical system and how it's conveyed on page. Court politics, magical tournament, and murder mystery all work together to give plenty of depth to the story and the world. Plus, all of the characters feel complex, with their own motivations, emotions, and desires.
The narration is great: the book is written in first person, which I always feels lends itself to an audio narration. In addition, Samantha Hydeson embraces the emotion of Bianca's character while also going all-in on the fantastical. Very nice. And finally, as an FYI, this is the first in a series and the epilogue does end on a cliffhanger. However, the story of this book is self-contained and feels wrapped up in the final chapter. A+, this is how you start a series without having a first book that feels unfinished!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the audiobook.
The Court of Venus takes place in a Tudor-inspired alternate fantasy universe where magic is bestowed and affected by the planets. We're talking the "classic Tudor planets" here, folks (I'm absolutely drooling over the marriage of historical research and fantastical elements): the Sun, the Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. Bianca, Moonborn magician, returns to the court where she was raised. She was summoned to participate in a tournament of magicians organized to celebrate the king's new wife's coronation. But Bianca has an ulterior motive: she wants to investigate the suspicious death of her childhood friend, who was the heir to the throne until he died much too young.
Her other childhood best friend-slash-magical rival, Roland, has profited from the current state of affairs, and is now the Lord Chancellor. He's a Venusborn magician who uses his powers to prop up the ailing king in the hopes of obtaining a new heir to the kingdom. Bianca doesn't know if she can trust him anymore. It doesn't help that Roland is both super hot and can sense others' greatest desires, including Bianca's unwanted attraction to himself. (Ummmm yes.)
I loved the magical system and how it's conveyed on page. Court politics, magical tournament, and murder mystery all work together to give plenty of depth to the story and the world. Plus, all of the characters feel complex, with their own motivations, emotions, and desires.
The narration is great: the book is written in first person, which I always feels lends itself to an audio narration. In addition, Samantha Hydeson embraces the emotion of Bianca's character while also going all-in on the fantastical. Very nice. And finally, as an FYI, this is the first in a series and the epilogue does end on a cliffhanger. However, the story of this book is self-contained and feels wrapped up in the final chapter. A+, this is how you start a series without having a first book that feels unfinished!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the audiobook.
October 2, 2026
This book was the perfect first read for the best month of the year!!!🍂🌖🗡️🕯️🌸
This is a lush, gorgeous fantasy with a unique magic system and intricate politics inspired by Tudor England. I would recommend this if you love Rachel Gillig, The Raven Scholar or The Cruel Prince. We have intricate politics, planetary / astrology magic and a murder mystery wrapped into one. The story starts slowly, but gains momentum with every page until everything explodes. This will satiate your cravings for a well-done historical fantasy!!
My heart is completely down bad for our main characters😭 Bianca is scrappy and enchanting, while Roland is messy and delicious (PINK HAIR AND A PEARL EARRING !!!!!!) The glimpses we get into their childhood rivalry is sooo believable like there is a lot of very real Baggage™️ there. I LOVE THEM SO MUCH! THEY MEAN EVERYTHING TO ME!
Read this if you love:
-lush, poetic writing
-unpredictable twists
-intricate layers of court politics
-yearning so palpable that you can’t breathe
-astrology magic, hidden corridors & many beheadings
I just know I’m going to love this even more on the first reread. I’m already counting the days until fall 2027!!!!
This is a lush, gorgeous fantasy with a unique magic system and intricate politics inspired by Tudor England. I would recommend this if you love Rachel Gillig, The Raven Scholar or The Cruel Prince. We have intricate politics, planetary / astrology magic and a murder mystery wrapped into one. The story starts slowly, but gains momentum with every page until everything explodes. This will satiate your cravings for a well-done historical fantasy!!
My heart is completely down bad for our main characters😭 Bianca is scrappy and enchanting, while Roland is messy and delicious (PINK HAIR AND A PEARL EARRING !!!!!!) The glimpses we get into their childhood rivalry is sooo believable like there is a lot of very real Baggage™️ there. I LOVE THEM SO MUCH! THEY MEAN EVERYTHING TO ME!
Read this if you love:
-lush, poetic writing
-unpredictable twists
-intricate layers of court politics
-yearning so palpable that you can’t breathe
-astrology magic, hidden corridors & many beheadings
I just know I’m going to love this even more on the first reread. I’m already counting the days until fall 2027!!!!
Did Not Finish
June 12, 2026DNF at 30%
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book!
I was so looking forward to this book, but unfortunately I have to call it. I am utterly bored out of my mind here. I'm going to start with the good and then get into the not-so-good.
I really like the lore/magic system. It's so fun and unique and I love a shape-shifter as a main characters. The magic system gives me some nostalgia over Sailor Moon and I have to chuckle at the fact that our FMC is a "Moon-born" similar to Usagi. The idea of people gaining powers based on when they were born according to the star signs is fascinating and I really liked that!
That being said, nothing else worked for me. It truly feels like there are zero stakes here. Yes, I get that her childhood friend was killed. Yes, I get that there was another random death. But honestly, these people don't care. After that person died at the ball, they shoved his corpse under a table and kept dancing. It doesn't feel like this is a vengeful court; it just feels like the court does not even CARE. Everything is all so dull, especially the plot. The best parts of the book so far are her changing into different animals and humans to spy, but everything that is said and done otherwise is just boring. I am positive that I will forget this book exists in a few hours time.
The relationship between the two mains is... ehhh. I don't feel like they have anything between them at this point. Their "banter" is an attempt... but a poor one. I feel like our FMC has more chemistry with her dead friend. Our MMC himself is utterly boring. I can't even tell you what he's like because he feels so nothing.
Overall, I definitely think this book will end up being either a 2-3 star read for me and I'm just not interested in reading 70% more book to come to that conclusion.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book!
I was so looking forward to this book, but unfortunately I have to call it. I am utterly bored out of my mind here. I'm going to start with the good and then get into the not-so-good.
I really like the lore/magic system. It's so fun and unique and I love a shape-shifter as a main characters. The magic system gives me some nostalgia over Sailor Moon and I have to chuckle at the fact that our FMC is a "Moon-born" similar to Usagi. The idea of people gaining powers based on when they were born according to the star signs is fascinating and I really liked that!
That being said, nothing else worked for me. It truly feels like there are zero stakes here. Yes, I get that her childhood friend was killed. Yes, I get that there was another random death. But honestly, these people don't care. After that person died at the ball, they shoved his corpse under a table and kept dancing. It doesn't feel like this is a vengeful court; it just feels like the court does not even CARE. Everything is all so dull, especially the plot. The best parts of the book so far are her changing into different animals and humans to spy, but everything that is said and done otherwise is just boring. I am positive that I will forget this book exists in a few hours time.
The relationship between the two mains is... ehhh. I don't feel like they have anything between them at this point. Their "banter" is an attempt... but a poor one. I feel like our FMC has more chemistry with her dead friend. Our MMC himself is utterly boring. I can't even tell you what he's like because he feels so nothing.
Overall, I definitely think this book will end up being either a 2-3 star read for me and I'm just not interested in reading 70% more book to come to that conclusion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Court of Venus is a very slow-building story filled with court intrigue, childhood rivals, hidden motives, and a truly unique celestial magic system. The world felt lush and immersive, fully embracing the historical fantasy atmosphere.
I listened to the audiobook and was completely entranced by the narrator. The performance pulled me into the story and kept me invested in unraveling all the mysteries along the way.
There were a few moments when I genuinely wondered if I had missed something, even though I hadn’t. Some of the scenes seemed to jump in without quite enough background or context, which occasionally took me a little to catch on to.
Still, the beautiful world, intriguing magic, and steadily unfolding mysteries kept me listening and eager to discover how everything would come together. A 5 star rating because it absolutely captivated me.
I listened to the audiobook and was completely entranced by the narrator. The performance pulled me into the story and kept me invested in unraveling all the mysteries along the way.
There were a few moments when I genuinely wondered if I had missed something, even though I hadn’t. Some of the scenes seemed to jump in without quite enough background or context, which occasionally took me a little to catch on to.
Still, the beautiful world, intriguing magic, and steadily unfolding mysteries kept me listening and eager to discover how everything would come together. A 5 star rating because it absolutely captivated me.
October 3, 2026
Slowburn romance, unique magic, and a decadent court full of danger and deceit. This was absolutely perfect for fans of Rachel Gillig and Hannah Whitten. The Tudor inspired setting gave the story a sense of historical groundedness, setting it apart from other political/court fantasies. The astrological magic system was also interesting, although I did feel at times like it was a bit overly convenient in its vagueness.
I felt this sense of over-convenience in the plot, as well, which involved a lot of characters just happening to find themselves in the right place at the right time and things just happening to work out. In spite of that, the incredibly high stakes and the scheming and trickery coming from all fronts did a good job of maintaining tension.
The romance was definitely the focal point of the story, in spite of taking its sweet time as the characters gradually learn to rely on each other through their forced alliance. I enjoyed both leads, but wasn't quite crazy about either of them; I think they both feel just a bit too tropey and familiar, which creates a hollowness. I'm almost more intrigued by some of the side characters who ended up being pulled into their orbit. I'm extremely interested to explore this group dynamic (and the fallout from the explosive ending) in the sequel.
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I felt this sense of over-convenience in the plot, as well, which involved a lot of characters just happening to find themselves in the right place at the right time and things just happening to work out. In spite of that, the incredibly high stakes and the scheming and trickery coming from all fronts did a good job of maintaining tension.
The romance was definitely the focal point of the story, in spite of taking its sweet time as the characters gradually learn to rely on each other through their forced alliance. I enjoyed both leads, but wasn't quite crazy about either of them; I think they both feel just a bit too tropey and familiar, which creates a hollowness. I'm almost more intrigued by some of the side characters who ended up being pulled into their orbit. I'm extremely interested to explore this group dynamic (and the fallout from the explosive ending) in the sequel.
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 1, 2026
3 stars! There was so much I loved in this book that I’m a bit sad it didn’t fully land for me. I really enjoyed the celestial magic system and that the book is brimming with court politics. There’s underlying mysteries/corruption that the main character is trying to uncover. And I also thought the writing style was quite lush and brought the world to life.
That being said, the plot never got to a point where I was hooked. Much of the book felt like the main characters meandering, scheming, and having side conversations that didn’t always necessarily move the story along. I also felt the characters themselves were only explored on the surface level which made me less invested in their romance. By the time the story began to escalate (70-75% mark), I think I had already lost interest.
Overall, I am glad I read it because I was very intrigued by the premise and I did really enjoy the world and the magic, but the plot and the characters left me wanting more. Will read book 2 in this duology in hopes that book 1 was just a slower investment for a better finale!
That being said, the plot never got to a point where I was hooked. Much of the book felt like the main characters meandering, scheming, and having side conversations that didn’t always necessarily move the story along. I also felt the characters themselves were only explored on the surface level which made me less invested in their romance. By the time the story began to escalate (70-75% mark), I think I had already lost interest.
Overall, I am glad I read it because I was very intrigued by the premise and I did really enjoy the world and the magic, but the plot and the characters left me wanting more. Will read book 2 in this duology in hopes that book 1 was just a slower investment for a better finale!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for offering this book for a read.
I've been chasing after this book because I was expecting something really adult. Something that was like a mixture of Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell, but lets set it in Renaissance times, add some lunar?astrology? based magic, and court intrigue.
In the end, I got three of the four things, but were they any good? No, not really. It's just... you can tell that the author doesn't really have any strength in writing a book that juggles Astrology magic, Renaissance and court intrigue.
In parts of the book which asks for court intrigue there is too much hand holding.
In parts where there is description or depth to the setting there is borderline purple prose.
In parts where you're dealing with astrology magic you get the equivalent of looking up the back of your horoscope in Teen Magazine.
Then there is the love interest. The love interest that can't do much else than just stare at the female lead, insult her for half of the book and then does a 360 and you go 'where the hell did these feelings come from'. I would have liked them if you saw any sort of actual romantic feelings blossom or any sort of inklings of feelings known. But there was just a lot of hand holding and pointing to make you SEE that they really like one another.
As for the plot. The plot is a beginner's version of court intrigue. Someone killed someone. Our female lead has to figure out who killed them. She figures it out. She saves the day. The end. There isn't really any sub-plots or wrenches / red-herrings thrown into the book to take you on this ride.
A part of me is a little shocked I even finished this. It is a read-able book, I just don't know what you really get from it once it's over. It just feels like a Disney Channel's attempt at being edgy without really pulling anything off.
I've been chasing after this book because I was expecting something really adult. Something that was like a mixture of Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norell, but lets set it in Renaissance times, add some lunar?astrology? based magic, and court intrigue.
In the end, I got three of the four things, but were they any good? No, not really. It's just... you can tell that the author doesn't really have any strength in writing a book that juggles Astrology magic, Renaissance and court intrigue.
In parts of the book which asks for court intrigue there is too much hand holding.
In parts where there is description or depth to the setting there is borderline purple prose.
In parts where you're dealing with astrology magic you get the equivalent of looking up the back of your horoscope in Teen Magazine.
Then there is the love interest. The love interest that can't do much else than just stare at the female lead, insult her for half of the book and then does a 360 and you go 'where the hell did these feelings come from'. I would have liked them if you saw any sort of actual romantic feelings blossom or any sort of inklings of feelings known. But there was just a lot of hand holding and pointing to make you SEE that they really like one another.
As for the plot. The plot is a beginner's version of court intrigue. Someone killed someone. Our female lead has to figure out who killed them. She figures it out. She saves the day. The end. There isn't really any sub-plots or wrenches / red-herrings thrown into the book to take you on this ride.
A part of me is a little shocked I even finished this. It is a read-able book, I just don't know what you really get from it once it's over. It just feels like a Disney Channel's attempt at being edgy without really pulling anything off.
March 2, 2026
As a former thirteen-year-old-obsessed-with-Tudor-history-and-also-fantasy-books, I ate this UP. Immersive, addictive historical(ly inspired) fantasy with a slow-burn romance; I think this might have actually done the impossible and shaken me out of my romantasy slump (the focus is on the fantasy, but the romance is fully realized and takes up enough space that I think romantasy readers will enjoy this, in addition to the traditional fantasy crowd).
Thank you Tor for the eARC!
Thank you Tor for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“Court is a web ... Spiders who weave and flies who are caught. Which are you?”
4.6/5 [Audiobook review]
First and foremost, the narration is fabulous. Samantha Hydeson was an inspired choice for this novel, bringing an absolutely riveting quality to the performance and giving Banta's fantasy the kind of vocal dimension that makes an audiobook feel like an experience rather than simply a reading. The prose itself flows beautifully aloud, which makes the fact that The Court of Venus is a debut novel all the more remarkable. Bel Banta has an accomplished narrative voice, and I was repeatedly struck by how naturally the language carries the reader through a story that is both conceptually ambitious and richly imagined.
The underlying concept is wonderful, but Banta's masterfully deliberate construction of the world and its characters around it. Getting to experience the settings and lore through what feels like casual observation is an insane accomplishment. I felt like I was there without being spoon-fed every landscape or sociocultural detail. The emotional components of the protagonist's magic are particularly well cultivated, creating a natural avenue for investment in the rest of the cast through creatively intimate character understanding. The memory elements are equally effective, providing past and personal context without resorting to the constant callbacks that can make fantasy narratives feel like a history lesson. Relevant details unfold precisely when/as needed, allowing thoughtfully paced revelations and questions to support every stage of the plot.
The romance is another particular strength. This is slow-burn done correctly: present, compelling, and emotionally consequential without overshadowing the real story. Keeping it secondary gave me considerable room to engage with the characters, the worldbuilding, and the central conflict without falling into the relentless pining that so many romantasies seem determined to inflict upon their readers. The pacing does occasionally linger, but I never found the story dull or stagnant; even its quieter stretches retain enough emotional and narrative momentum to keep me invested.
The Court of Venus is emotionally riveting, evocative at nearly every turn, and impressively constructed. Banta has created a fantasy that understands the value of withholding, of allowing relationships to develop alongside rather than in place of the plot, and of making the emotional mechanics of its magic feel inseparable from those who wield it. As a debut, it is quite frankly an astonishing achievement. I'll be waiting impatiently for the next installment of this thoroughly engaging series — I will never again be able to look at a fur-collared coat without a knot in my stomach.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to "read" and review this exceptional novel pre-release in exchange for an honest review, I have high expectations for this series and its author.
4.6/5 [Audiobook review]
First and foremost, the narration is fabulous. Samantha Hydeson was an inspired choice for this novel, bringing an absolutely riveting quality to the performance and giving Banta's fantasy the kind of vocal dimension that makes an audiobook feel like an experience rather than simply a reading. The prose itself flows beautifully aloud, which makes the fact that The Court of Venus is a debut novel all the more remarkable. Bel Banta has an accomplished narrative voice, and I was repeatedly struck by how naturally the language carries the reader through a story that is both conceptually ambitious and richly imagined.
The underlying concept is wonderful, but Banta's masterfully deliberate construction of the world and its characters around it. Getting to experience the settings and lore through what feels like casual observation is an insane accomplishment. I felt like I was there without being spoon-fed every landscape or sociocultural detail. The emotional components of the protagonist's magic are particularly well cultivated, creating a natural avenue for investment in the rest of the cast through creatively intimate character understanding. The memory elements are equally effective, providing past and personal context without resorting to the constant callbacks that can make fantasy narratives feel like a history lesson. Relevant details unfold precisely when/as needed, allowing thoughtfully paced revelations and questions to support every stage of the plot.
The romance is another particular strength. This is slow-burn done correctly: present, compelling, and emotionally consequential without overshadowing the real story. Keeping it secondary gave me considerable room to engage with the characters, the worldbuilding, and the central conflict without falling into the relentless pining that so many romantasies seem determined to inflict upon their readers. The pacing does occasionally linger, but I never found the story dull or stagnant; even its quieter stretches retain enough emotional and narrative momentum to keep me invested.
The Court of Venus is emotionally riveting, evocative at nearly every turn, and impressively constructed. Banta has created a fantasy that understands the value of withholding, of allowing relationships to develop alongside rather than in place of the plot, and of making the emotional mechanics of its magic feel inseparable from those who wield it. As a debut, it is quite frankly an astonishing achievement. I'll be waiting impatiently for the next installment of this thoroughly engaging series — I will never again be able to look at a fur-collared coat without a knot in my stomach.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to "read" and review this exceptional novel pre-release in exchange for an honest review, I have high expectations for this series and its author.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved every moment of this book, as the universe created by Bel Banta left such a positive impression on me!
The magic system in The Court of Venus felt incredibly fresh and original, with its foundation in planets and astrology. Despite how complex that concept could have become, the author managed to introduce the basics of the world and its magic without making it feel overwhelming. Combined with the rich prose, it perfectly captured the atmosphere of a magical fantasy court overflowing with politics, secrets, and schemes.
The court politics were also so well done and genuinely engaging, constantly filling my head with theories about who was scheming with whom and what everyone's true motives were. Tournaments can be either a hit or miss for me, but I enjoyed this one enough to be completely satisfied with that part of the story!
But what really sold me on this book? The characters — especially the relationship between Bianca and Roland. Their dynamic was full of delicious tension and emotionally charged moments that had me completely invested.
And y'all... we seriously need more pink-haired MMCs because apparently that's my new obsession.
Thank you to Bel Banta, Macmillan Audio, Tor Publishing Group | Tor Books and Netgalley for eARC and ALC in exchange for honest review.
The magic system in The Court of Venus felt incredibly fresh and original, with its foundation in planets and astrology. Despite how complex that concept could have become, the author managed to introduce the basics of the world and its magic without making it feel overwhelming. Combined with the rich prose, it perfectly captured the atmosphere of a magical fantasy court overflowing with politics, secrets, and schemes.
The court politics were also so well done and genuinely engaging, constantly filling my head with theories about who was scheming with whom and what everyone's true motives were. Tournaments can be either a hit or miss for me, but I enjoyed this one enough to be completely satisfied with that part of the story!
But what really sold me on this book? The characters — especially the relationship between Bianca and Roland. Their dynamic was full of delicious tension and emotionally charged moments that had me completely invested.
And y'all... we seriously need more pink-haired MMCs because apparently that's my new obsession.
Thank you to Bel Banta, Macmillan Audio, Tor Publishing Group | Tor Books and Netgalley for eARC and ALC in exchange for honest review.
September 12, 2026
What a refresher!! 👏
I loved everything about this book!!
We follow Bianca, who is a magician, she returns to court and it reunited with the Venusborn and childhood friend, Roland 😏
Lately some fantasy books with romance have been a little off to me and haven’t been hitting that mark but The Court of Venus absolutely did it for me! I did not want to stop reading! For me this has a fabulous balance of world building, politics and romance.
This book had me instantly hooked with more of a gothic vibe, historical setting, mystery and the romance was perfect. The romance is layered with history, tension and best of all surprises!
I love anything with Magic and Astrology so this was definitely a book I had a feeling I was going to love but it truly surpassed my expectations with the writing and overall vibe ♥️
Not to mention this is a debut?! 🤯
Even though there is more coming, this doesn’t leave you on a crazy cliffhanger!! I can’t wait for the next book! 🖤
I loved everything about this book!!
We follow Bianca, who is a magician, she returns to court and it reunited with the Venusborn and childhood friend, Roland 😏
Lately some fantasy books with romance have been a little off to me and haven’t been hitting that mark but The Court of Venus absolutely did it for me! I did not want to stop reading! For me this has a fabulous balance of world building, politics and romance.
This book had me instantly hooked with more of a gothic vibe, historical setting, mystery and the romance was perfect. The romance is layered with history, tension and best of all surprises!
I love anything with Magic and Astrology so this was definitely a book I had a feeling I was going to love but it truly surpassed my expectations with the writing and overall vibe ♥️
Not to mention this is a debut?! 🤯
Even though there is more coming, this doesn’t leave you on a crazy cliffhanger!! I can’t wait for the next book! 🖤
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Serious contender for best book I've read this year 🤩
RTC
Thanks to Tor Books via NetGalley for providing an eARC
RTC
Thanks to Tor Books via NetGalley for providing an eARC
October 5, 2026
I will never tire of the “slutty charming man x the one woman he can’t impress” dynamic, IT HITS EVERY TIME!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.25+ stars! Will come back (fr I will) and update soon!
If you loved the court intrigue of Immortal Rose or A Dance of Lies, but want a completely unique celestial magic system AND childhood rivals who reunite as adults and make you a lil heart sick???
THIS ONE IS FOR YOU.
Bianca is the first Moonborn magician in over a thousand years, but after getting sent away from court (and the scheming and bullshit)... she gets a letter summoning her back.
The king has executed two queens (among many other people), the succession is a mess, her childhood friend and heir to the throne was mysteriously murdered (but people aren't acting like it was murder), and somehow the one person she might actually be able to trust is Roland—the incredibly irritating, incredibly attractive Venusborn magician she grew up training alongside.
And I fear childhood friends/rivals → separated → reunited as adult adversaries will get me EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
Especially when you start weaving flashbacks into the story and slowly showing me everything that happened between them???
The tension and longing between Bianca and Roland was SO good because there's actual history underneath it. These aren't two random hot people who meet and immediately want to bang each other. There are years of friendship, competition, resentment, affection, and things left unsaid between them.
Which, naturally, makes every little interaction approximately 400% more delicious.
And Roland???
Flirty. Infuriating. Hot.
I also really liked Bianca. She's clever and deliberate, and I loved having an FMC who could actually hold her own in all of the political maneuvering happening around her. Roland is equally cunning, which made watching the two of them scheme together—and occasionally against each other—even more fun.
I also really loved the magic system. I've read a few books with celestial magic but this felt unique in the way it was done.
Different magicians are blessed by different celestial bodies, and their powers correspond with them: Venusborn can read desires, Saturnborn communicate with the dead, Jupiter influences luck, while Bianca's Moonborn abilities are essentially a giant question mark because someone like her hasn't existed in over a thousand years.
There's a LOT going on with it, but somehow it never felt like I was sitting through a lecture on how the magic worked. We learn as we go, and I really appreciated that.
The pacing also MOVES.
There's court politics, a murder mystery, magical competition, scheming, flashbacks, romance, and reveals happening constantly. I flew through it and never really felt like there was a point where the story dragged.
Although I think that's also where my one little criticism comes in.
This isn't a particularly long book for everything it's trying to accomplish, so occasionally I'd have this moment of "oh! Okay! We're here!"
Part of me would've happily taken another 100 pages to sit with the characters, their histories, and some of the emotional beats a little longer.
Overall, though, this was such a fun read.
Give me smart characters trying to outmaneuver each other at court.
Give me weird celestial magic.
Give me murder and secrets.
And PLEASE give me two people with years of complicated history staring at each other across a room while pretending they're absolutely normal about it.
I'm in.
Also, the audiobook??? LOVELY. It's solo narrated and she absolutely crushed it.
And apparently we're getting all of this wrapped up in a duology?
Perfect. See you at Book 2.
If you loved the court intrigue of Immortal Rose or A Dance of Lies, but want a completely unique celestial magic system AND childhood rivals who reunite as adults and make you a lil heart sick???
THIS ONE IS FOR YOU.
Bianca is the first Moonborn magician in over a thousand years, but after getting sent away from court (and the scheming and bullshit)... she gets a letter summoning her back.
The king has executed two queens (among many other people), the succession is a mess, her childhood friend and heir to the throne was mysteriously murdered (but people aren't acting like it was murder), and somehow the one person she might actually be able to trust is Roland—the incredibly irritating, incredibly attractive Venusborn magician she grew up training alongside.
And I fear childhood friends/rivals → separated → reunited as adult adversaries will get me EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
Especially when you start weaving flashbacks into the story and slowly showing me everything that happened between them???
The tension and longing between Bianca and Roland was SO good because there's actual history underneath it. These aren't two random hot people who meet and immediately want to bang each other. There are years of friendship, competition, resentment, affection, and things left unsaid between them.
Which, naturally, makes every little interaction approximately 400% more delicious.
And Roland???
Flirty. Infuriating. Hot.
I also really liked Bianca. She's clever and deliberate, and I loved having an FMC who could actually hold her own in all of the political maneuvering happening around her. Roland is equally cunning, which made watching the two of them scheme together—and occasionally against each other—even more fun.
I also really loved the magic system. I've read a few books with celestial magic but this felt unique in the way it was done.
Different magicians are blessed by different celestial bodies, and their powers correspond with them: Venusborn can read desires, Saturnborn communicate with the dead, Jupiter influences luck, while Bianca's Moonborn abilities are essentially a giant question mark because someone like her hasn't existed in over a thousand years.
There's a LOT going on with it, but somehow it never felt like I was sitting through a lecture on how the magic worked. We learn as we go, and I really appreciated that.
The pacing also MOVES.
There's court politics, a murder mystery, magical competition, scheming, flashbacks, romance, and reveals happening constantly. I flew through it and never really felt like there was a point where the story dragged.
Although I think that's also where my one little criticism comes in.
This isn't a particularly long book for everything it's trying to accomplish, so occasionally I'd have this moment of "oh! Okay! We're here!"
Part of me would've happily taken another 100 pages to sit with the characters, their histories, and some of the emotional beats a little longer.
Overall, though, this was such a fun read.
Give me smart characters trying to outmaneuver each other at court.
Give me weird celestial magic.
Give me murder and secrets.
And PLEASE give me two people with years of complicated history staring at each other across a room while pretending they're absolutely normal about it.
I'm in.
Also, the audiobook??? LOVELY. It's solo narrated and she absolutely crushed it.
And apparently we're getting all of this wrapped up in a duology?
Perfect. See you at Book 2.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I absolutely loved this. Am I the target audience, as a woman who grew up besotted with Tudor history—I know, get in line—ice queens, and seductive dumbasses? Yes. But I also think it's simply really good, and definitely one of the best books I've read this year..
About that Tudor thing: The author is very clear about the inspiration, and it's certainly all over the place. But it's shot through with a magic system that should not! Have worked! For me! It would be so easily for astrology-based magic to be ridiculously corny, or built to simply appeal to the astrology girlies (okay, yes, this also applies to me) with very little weight to it. But Bel Banta clearly thought through all the worst things that could happen if someone possessed magic infused by a specific planet, even if that planet seems kind of innocuous. Pop that into a Tudor-esque world, and you have high stakes every second, and a kind of horrifically terrifying way to live in which you can't trust anyone. Including the seductive dumbass. ESPECIALLY the seductive dumbass, one could say.
This is sold as a "romantic fantasy" versus "fantasy romance", and it's the beginning of a duology, so we've yet to see if there will be an HEA. (The author does, however, work at The Ripped Bodice—so at the very minimum, she knows what a great romance *is*.) But the thing is—the love story here is as good as anything you'll find in a truly good romance novel. And I'll be honest: It is much better than what I've found in a lot of recently written romances written to cash in on the romantasy craze. Bianca and Roland do not trust each other. They antagonize one another. They keep secrets.
But boy. Do they YEARN. They're two of the best kind of yearners—you get a stern, emotionally repressed yearner (Bianca) and a slutty yearner who everyone wants, but he only wants HER (Roland).
This is a slow burn! Which doesn't always work for me, because it feels like the term "slow burn" has become code for "doesn't make a move until 80% in for no fucking reason". Except Roland and Bianca do have reasons, both plot-related and emotion-related, and they make sense. Plus, Banta doesn't just sit there and have them sulk over their feelings. They spend time together. They relearn each other as adults. They fight against a system stacked against them... together.
Because this book has a plot! It has court intrigue and a murder mystery and twists and turns and all of this coalesces so well with the romance. So, here's the thing: Who knows if we'll get an HEA? I guess we'll find out with the sequel, but I think the odds are in our favor. Nonetheless, I felt such an emotional punch with this book that as long as the sequel is good, I truly don't care. "Romantic fantasy" can mean a lot of things, but here—I loved the world, I loved the characters, I loved the plot, and I loved the romance. I've enjoyed a lot of books this year, but it's been a while since a book written by a "new to me" author has had me going "I can't get up from this chair until I finish this novel". Every single element and hook had me wanting to read more.
I also just really love Roland and Bianca—I want the best for them! Free my boy he did some fucked up shit but it was all very complicated and he's so in looove and she's kiiiind of a bitch but he loves her so much (with good reason) just let them work it out!
Everything here is so decadent and rich and at times unsettling. Oh, and it's hot. The slow burn does not mean they aren't *attracted* to each other until suddenly they realize they are (this is another gripe I have with the current status of the slow burn romance). Rather, Roland and Bianca dance around each other in a cat and mouse situation, because really, why would they trust each other anyway?
There is a dam. The dam bursts. The dam is sex. Bianca also bursts. A lot. I mean, so does he, but.... Have you ever thought about the appeal of a pink-haired charismatic sadboy who charms everyone he meets except the person he actually wants to charm? And in addition, how good someone with the ability to comprehend your every desire would be in bed? Food for thought.
I feel refreshed and energized by this book. It's so good. I'm desperate for the sequel. And frankly, if Bel Banta wants to keep writing about other characters in this world, there's so much potential. But for now: Let's figure it out for Roland and Bianca, yes?
Thanks to Tor Books and NetGalley for giving me a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
About that Tudor thing: The author is very clear about the inspiration, and it's certainly all over the place. But it's shot through with a magic system that should not! Have worked! For me! It would be so easily for astrology-based magic to be ridiculously corny, or built to simply appeal to the astrology girlies (okay, yes, this also applies to me) with very little weight to it. But Bel Banta clearly thought through all the worst things that could happen if someone possessed magic infused by a specific planet, even if that planet seems kind of innocuous. Pop that into a Tudor-esque world, and you have high stakes every second, and a kind of horrifically terrifying way to live in which you can't trust anyone. Including the seductive dumbass. ESPECIALLY the seductive dumbass, one could say.
This is sold as a "romantic fantasy" versus "fantasy romance", and it's the beginning of a duology, so we've yet to see if there will be an HEA. (The author does, however, work at The Ripped Bodice—so at the very minimum, she knows what a great romance *is*.) But the thing is—the love story here is as good as anything you'll find in a truly good romance novel. And I'll be honest: It is much better than what I've found in a lot of recently written romances written to cash in on the romantasy craze. Bianca and Roland do not trust each other. They antagonize one another. They keep secrets.
But boy. Do they YEARN. They're two of the best kind of yearners—you get a stern, emotionally repressed yearner (Bianca) and a slutty yearner who everyone wants, but he only wants HER (Roland).
This is a slow burn! Which doesn't always work for me, because it feels like the term "slow burn" has become code for "doesn't make a move until 80% in for no fucking reason". Except Roland and Bianca do have reasons, both plot-related and emotion-related, and they make sense. Plus, Banta doesn't just sit there and have them sulk over their feelings. They spend time together. They relearn each other as adults. They fight against a system stacked against them... together.
Because this book has a plot! It has court intrigue and a murder mystery and twists and turns and all of this coalesces so well with the romance. So, here's the thing: Who knows if we'll get an HEA? I guess we'll find out with the sequel, but I think the odds are in our favor. Nonetheless, I felt such an emotional punch with this book that as long as the sequel is good, I truly don't care. "Romantic fantasy" can mean a lot of things, but here—I loved the world, I loved the characters, I loved the plot, and I loved the romance. I've enjoyed a lot of books this year, but it's been a while since a book written by a "new to me" author has had me going "I can't get up from this chair until I finish this novel". Every single element and hook had me wanting to read more.
I also just really love Roland and Bianca—I want the best for them! Free my boy he did some fucked up shit but it was all very complicated and he's so in looove and she's kiiiind of a bitch but he loves her so much (with good reason) just let them work it out!
Everything here is so decadent and rich and at times unsettling. Oh, and it's hot. The slow burn does not mean they aren't *attracted* to each other until suddenly they realize they are (this is another gripe I have with the current status of the slow burn romance). Rather, Roland and Bianca dance around each other in a cat and mouse situation, because really, why would they trust each other anyway?
There is a dam. The dam bursts. The dam is sex. Bianca also bursts. A lot. I mean, so does he, but.... Have you ever thought about the appeal of a pink-haired charismatic sadboy who charms everyone he meets except the person he actually wants to charm? And in addition, how good someone with the ability to comprehend your every desire would be in bed? Food for thought.
I feel refreshed and energized by this book. It's so good. I'm desperate for the sequel. And frankly, if Bel Banta wants to keep writing about other characters in this world, there's so much potential. But for now: Let's figure it out for Roland and Bianca, yes?
Thanks to Tor Books and NetGalley for giving me a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars rounded down to 3 for Goodreads.
The Court of Venus by Bel Banta is a romantic fantasy that follows Bianca, a rare Moonborn magician, as she seeks to uncover the truth behind the murder of one of her closest friends in a deadly court full of scheming magicians, a violent king, and her rival Roland, now the Lord Chancellor of the realm and full of his own secrets.
The publisher comps for this title are The Knight and the Moth, The Familiar, and A Darker Shade of Magic. I have not read A Darker Shade of Magic and I DNF’d The Familiar, so I can provide limited feedback on those two. I think the historical medieval fantasy aspect of The Familiar is what is being compared for that title, as they are set in roughly comparable time frames. I do not think The Knight and The Moth is an accurate comp, as the tone and romantic entanglement are very different from what is present here. This is foremost a fantasy with a subtle romantic subplot that doesn’t really come up until the back quarter of the book. The historical origins and political maneuverings are essential to the plot, so if you’re going into this for a “heavy on the romance, light on the plot” read this is not for you.
The publisher also included a trope list, which I hate, of: rivals to lovers; courtly intrigue; magic tournament; slow burn; murder mystery; & she falls first, he falls harder. Rivals to lovers is kind of accurate but I think evokes the wrong idea, especially couched with slow burn, & she falls first, he falls harder. Yes there is a romantic sub plot but emphasis on the sub. The rest are as accurate as a one-dimensional trope shopping list can be.
Written in first person singular POV, the story follows our FMC Bianca as she is summoned to the court of King Richard V for a magical tournament in honor of his new queen Cecily Guildford’s coronation.
There is some LGBT representation, with several characters including the MMC mentioned as having same-sex relations/flirtations. There is some spice in the book, mostly in the back quarter, and it is moderately graphic. The romantic plot is a subplot to the murder mystery and political machinations, and was my least favorite part of the book. There is minimal gore present. The plot is balanced between character-driven action and the mystery resolution. It was an easy read, with open and accessible prose, with only a few rough spots of awkward phrasing or unnecessarily elaborate descriptors.
Bianca, a Moonborn magician, was raised in the court alongside the now-deceased Prince Hal and the MMC Roland, the Lord Chancellor of the court, a Venusborn magician, under the tutelage of Prospero, a Jupiterborn magician. The magic is based in astrology, with each of the signs conveying their own gifts. Moonborn are exceptionally rare and their full abilities are unknown, but are linked to memory, with Bianca being the first in a millennia. Magicians are physically marked by their signs, having hair and eyes that match their sign. Bianca’s hair and eyes are shades of white, Roland’s pink, Prospero’s blue, a Marsborn red, and so on. Venusborn control desire and can heal, Marsborn attack bonds and can kill, Jupiterborn can duplicate items and are linked to prosperity, Sunborn are linked to truth, Mercuryborn to communication and secrets, and Saturnborn to death and the beyond.
The world-building is lovely, heavily influenced by the Elizabethan court and timeframe. The book is loosely based on the time of Henry VII through to Elizabeth I, and anyone familiar with Tudor England will feel that out right away. Because it relies on a historical past, the majority of the world-building is thrown into the magic system and the intimate setting of the court, with the greater lore of the world left more vague. I did love the feeling the author created, of a glittering, vibrant, seething court full of jostling for advantage, and liked the historical clothing references. But something felt missing or slightly incoherent and I can’t quite put my finger on it.
The characters were interesting enough, but I didn’t feel particularly invested in either of the MCs, and found the MMC to be a little distasteful. I think you could easily describe them both as morally grey by the end of the book. The side characters are relatively one-dimensional and I had minimal investment in them.
I did not enjoy the relationship between Bianca and Roland, and felt it cheapened parts of the story by undermining established character aspects. The relationship is central to the plot, and does plot work; I just didn’t enjoy it. It comes to the fore in the back quarter of the book and my enjoyment of the book decreased appropriately. Roland feels exceptionally untrustworthy, and his ability to manipulate desire makes me suspect his endgame. Bianca is less endearing the more time she spends with Roland, and her character felt diminished by him.
I think if it was more of a romance reader it would bother me less, but it felt less star-crossed and more toxic. There was another relationship in the book that was the opposite and I was heartbroken that it wasn’t the central one. I still want the ultimate story resolution to rest there, but will say no more to avoid spoilers.
In all, it is a brilliant concept and an admirable debut. I enjoyed the Tudor vibes, adored the magic system, and liked the courtly setting, but found the characters to be on the bland side. The story is an easy read, enjoyable, and I am interested in continuing, though I probably will only maintain an e-book copy for the personal library.
The Court of Venus by Bel Banta is a romantic fantasy that follows Bianca, a rare Moonborn magician, as she seeks to uncover the truth behind the murder of one of her closest friends in a deadly court full of scheming magicians, a violent king, and her rival Roland, now the Lord Chancellor of the realm and full of his own secrets.
The publisher comps for this title are The Knight and the Moth, The Familiar, and A Darker Shade of Magic. I have not read A Darker Shade of Magic and I DNF’d The Familiar, so I can provide limited feedback on those two. I think the historical medieval fantasy aspect of The Familiar is what is being compared for that title, as they are set in roughly comparable time frames. I do not think The Knight and The Moth is an accurate comp, as the tone and romantic entanglement are very different from what is present here. This is foremost a fantasy with a subtle romantic subplot that doesn’t really come up until the back quarter of the book. The historical origins and political maneuverings are essential to the plot, so if you’re going into this for a “heavy on the romance, light on the plot” read this is not for you.
The publisher also included a trope list, which I hate, of: rivals to lovers; courtly intrigue; magic tournament; slow burn; murder mystery; & she falls first, he falls harder. Rivals to lovers is kind of accurate but I think evokes the wrong idea, especially couched with slow burn, & she falls first, he falls harder. Yes there is a romantic sub plot but emphasis on the sub. The rest are as accurate as a one-dimensional trope shopping list can be.
Written in first person singular POV, the story follows our FMC Bianca as she is summoned to the court of King Richard V for a magical tournament in honor of his new queen Cecily Guildford’s coronation.
There is some LGBT representation, with several characters including the MMC mentioned as having same-sex relations/flirtations. There is some spice in the book, mostly in the back quarter, and it is moderately graphic. The romantic plot is a subplot to the murder mystery and political machinations, and was my least favorite part of the book. There is minimal gore present. The plot is balanced between character-driven action and the mystery resolution. It was an easy read, with open and accessible prose, with only a few rough spots of awkward phrasing or unnecessarily elaborate descriptors.
Bianca, a Moonborn magician, was raised in the court alongside the now-deceased Prince Hal and the MMC Roland, the Lord Chancellor of the court, a Venusborn magician, under the tutelage of Prospero, a Jupiterborn magician. The magic is based in astrology, with each of the signs conveying their own gifts. Moonborn are exceptionally rare and their full abilities are unknown, but are linked to memory, with Bianca being the first in a millennia. Magicians are physically marked by their signs, having hair and eyes that match their sign. Bianca’s hair and eyes are shades of white, Roland’s pink, Prospero’s blue, a Marsborn red, and so on. Venusborn control desire and can heal, Marsborn attack bonds and can kill, Jupiterborn can duplicate items and are linked to prosperity, Sunborn are linked to truth, Mercuryborn to communication and secrets, and Saturnborn to death and the beyond.
The world-building is lovely, heavily influenced by the Elizabethan court and timeframe. The book is loosely based on the time of Henry VII through to Elizabeth I, and anyone familiar with Tudor England will feel that out right away. Because it relies on a historical past, the majority of the world-building is thrown into the magic system and the intimate setting of the court, with the greater lore of the world left more vague. I did love the feeling the author created, of a glittering, vibrant, seething court full of jostling for advantage, and liked the historical clothing references. But something felt missing or slightly incoherent and I can’t quite put my finger on it.
The characters were interesting enough, but I didn’t feel particularly invested in either of the MCs, and found the MMC to be a little distasteful. I think you could easily describe them both as morally grey by the end of the book. The side characters are relatively one-dimensional and I had minimal investment in them.
I did not enjoy the relationship between Bianca and Roland, and felt it cheapened parts of the story by undermining established character aspects. The relationship is central to the plot, and does plot work; I just didn’t enjoy it. It comes to the fore in the back quarter of the book and my enjoyment of the book decreased appropriately. Roland feels exceptionally untrustworthy, and his ability to manipulate desire makes me suspect his endgame. Bianca is less endearing the more time she spends with Roland, and her character felt diminished by him.
I think if it was more of a romance reader it would bother me less, but it felt less star-crossed and more toxic. There was another relationship in the book that was the opposite and I was heartbroken that it wasn’t the central one. I still want the ultimate story resolution to rest there, but will say no more to avoid spoilers.
In all, it is a brilliant concept and an admirable debut. I enjoyed the Tudor vibes, adored the magic system, and liked the courtly setting, but found the characters to be on the bland side. The story is an easy read, enjoyable, and I am interested in continuing, though I probably will only maintain an e-book copy for the personal library.
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